Dharamshala, Aug. 11 -- To preserve the fragile ecology of trekking trails, the Dharamshala circle of Himachal forest department is set to introduce a new waste-management initiative under which trekkers and hikers will be required to collect all the waste generated during their trek.

They will be issued reusable or recyclable garbage bags at the department's check-posts to store the waste and bring it back. Trekkers will also have to pay a refundable security deposit of Rs.500. On their return they will need to present the issued garbage bag and the receipt to the duty officials.

Upon basic verification that the non-biodegradable items logged at entry are brought back, the security deposit will be refunded. However, the amount will be ...